Luxury Ryokan Collection Breaks New Ground

The exclusive world of high-end travel accommodation is breaking new ground with the launch of the Luxury Ryokan Collection (LRC), a pioneering brand of a selection of the finest ryokans across Japan.

LRC is co-founded by Tokyo-based Mr Hiroki Fukunaga, Managing Director of R Project Inc and Hong Kong-based Singaporean Ms Cecilia Tee, President & CEO of TravelOptions Group. Both experienced hoteliers, they share a vision and passion to develop a brand bringing together a collection of the finest ryokans in Japan and to promote these worldwide to discerning travelers with a taste for the finest things in life.

Managing Director, Hiroki Fukunaga, said “LRC is unique in both concept and execution. Until now, because of language barriers and lack of international marketing exposure, ryokans are not readily available to people outside of Japan. We are confident that LRC will help break these barriers and lift the profile of luxury ryokans in the world.”

“Understanding these challenges, LRC provides exclusive services to guests staying at any of the ryokans in our Collection. This is the first of its kind in Japan. We encourage anyone who wants an exceptional discovery to come and experience one of the ryokans,” adds Ms Tee.

Ryokans are traditional inns that hark back to medieval times and can be considered national treasures of Japan, particularly those at the highest end where there are only about 200 in existence. “LRC consists only of Category AAA ryokans, each with its own rich history. When guests stay at a ryokan in the LRC, they will experience authentic traditional Japanese culture and customs and indulge in old-fashioned Japanese hospitality and service at its legendary best.” added Mr Fukunaga.

LRC plans to market its Collection in key destinations like the United States, China, Hong Kong, Germany and the United Kingdom. Marketing channels will focus on LRC’s website, partnership marketing with airlines, credit card companies, hotel partners as well as lifestyle publications.

“We will also be looking at appointing GSA’s globally to assist us in maximising both the LRC brand and our ryokans” adds Ms Tee.

There are about 63,000 ryokans in Japan of which about 200 are considered luxurious and extraordinary, with many located close to hot springs or onsens. Initially, LRC has brought together 15 luxury ryokans, spread across the country from Tokyo and Hakone to Kobe and Kyoto, to showcase to the world.

Ms Tee commented, “We have painstakingly selected 15 of the best to launch the Collection. They have undergone a rigorous selection process and in the coming months and years ahead, we expect to bring more on board.”

LRC will offer several initiatives that are exclusive to the Collection, including Guide and VIP Excursions, Interpretation Service, Free Mobile Phone Service and a Wine Cellar where guests can select from an extensive wine collection.

“These services are available only to guests who book directly with LRC. We will also tie up with luxury hotels in key cities so that guests who wish to continue their journey elsewhere will be taken care of even after they leave us.”

“The LRC motto is ‘Luxury Lifestyle. Traditional Ryokan. Unique Collection’ and we are confident that we will live up to our promise,” concluded Ms Tee.